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First Standard for E-bikes, Electric Skateboards and ScootersJames Anderton posted on December 11, 2019 |

the Society of Automotive Engineers seeks to standardize nomenclature.

Inexpensive, power-dense lithium batteries have led to an explosion in small electric mobility devices, such as scooters, electric skateboards, and e-bikes. These devices are providing consumers new options for getting around, but they’re also causing problems in some jurisdictions when it comes to the rules of the road and licensing.

The Society of Automotive Engineers recently announced it is publishing its latest standard, J3194™ Taxonomy & Classification of Powered Micromobility Vehicles. Aligned with SAE’s commitment to advance mobility knowledge and solutions for the benefit of humanity, this first-of-its-kind standard provides much needed clarity and organization around the nomenclature of powered micromobility vehicles.

“From powered standing scooters to electric bicycles, micromobility is rapidly weaving into the urban mobility fabric,” said Annie Chang, Head of New Mobility, SAE International. “The J3194 standard lays the groundwork for effective communication around micromobility for cities, operators and manufacturers alike.”

The J3194 standard provides a criteria for “powered micromobility vehicles” and a classification system that defines six types of powered micromobility vehicles by physical attributes—including powered bicycles, standing and seated scooters, self-balancing and non-self-balancing boards, and skates—with descriptors for curb weight, vehicle width, top speed and power source.

Added Ms. Chang: This standard will evolve to remain in line with the rapidly changing industry. We appreciate the opportunity to have convened the best from the growing micromobility community for this effort and look forward to our continued collaboration.”

According to the release, the publication of the J3194 standard by the Powered Micromobility Vehicles Committee further supports SAE’s expanding view of mobility to include all facets of new mobility. The organization convenes new mobility communities through a series of events, presentations, technical papers and consortium activities. More information is available at sae.org/micromobility.